Binghampton Ward (Tucson, AZ)

The earliest chapel still standing in Tucson, AZ, is the Binghampton Ward. It was built in the 1930s.

I'm still looking to visit this chapel eventually, but it's too unique to not highlight. It's built in the Colonial Revival Style. 

(Image Source: Church History Library)

The interior of the chapel itself is also beautiful. It has exposed beams along the ceiling. A circular window depicting Christ praying in Gethsemane is found at the front of the chapel. 

(Image Source: Google Photos)

(Image Source: Church News)

The chapel also used to have 4 stained glass windows on each side of the chapel. Unfortunately, these were replaced during remodeling in the 1960s. Apparently, members took these stained glass windows and put them in their homes.

(Image Source: Latter-day Saints in Tucson)

Logan Temple Barn

Built in 1897, just a decade or so after the Logan Temple, directly to its west, the temple barn's purpose was to provide accommodations for the animals of those who traveled long distances to attend the temple. By 1915 it was no longer used due to the advent of the automobile. It was sold to a member who converted it into a garage for some time. Its use since that time has been in question. At one point, it was going to hold apartments, but those plans didn't work out.

Las Vegas (NV) Ward: Interior

 I haven't had the chance to see the inside of this chapel, but the Family History Center provided me with pictures.

It looks beautiful--the slope of the sealing and the moldings along the sides. A cry room is on the second floor at the back of the chapel, enclosed by glass.

A small, circular stained glass window sits at the front of the chapel.

Since this is a family history center, this building isn't used for worship services anymore, which is really too bad. It's a great example of LDS architecture.

Las Vegas (NV) Ward

This chapel was built in 1932 in the Tudor Revival style. At the time, it was nearly on the edge of town; now, this building is just a few blocks away from the famous Las Vegas strip.

(Image Source: Church History Library)

(Image Source: Google Maps)

The building is in very good condition, but its been affected by changing demographics in this area. Latter-day Saints tend to live in the suburbs, and as this neighborhood became more and more urban, wards moved away from the building. Today, the building serves as a family history center. However, the chapel is still intact. We'll take a look at it next week.

West Jordan Ward

This chapel was built in the 1860s, when West Jordan was a small settlement. In the 1930s, it became a museum for the Daughters of the Utah Pioneers. I believe it is now owned by the city. The building is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Wilshire Ward (CA): Stained Glass Details

Six pairs of windows line the left side of the chapel. Each one has a different image relating to Christianity and LDS theology.

Wreath & Beehive

Olive Branch and Dove

Anchor and Lily

Star and Scripture

Chalice & Wheat

Grapes and Torch

At the front of the chapel is a beautiful window of Christ knocking at the door.

This window was actually based off of William Holman Hunt's painting, The Light of the World, and you can see the resemblance.

(Image Source)

I'm so happy that this building continues to be used regularly.

Wilshire Ward: Interior

The interior of this chapel is stunning.

This building highlights the art deco styles. Artistic patterns are painted on the ceiling and walls. At the front of the chapel is a circular rostrum, with a stained glass window of Christ knocking at the door. Other stained glass windows with Christian and LDS icons line the wall on the left.

At the back of the chapel is a large balcony that is used for stake conferences. A very enthusiastic member took me up there for some of my pictures.

I'll post pictures of the stained glass windows next.